Kobe and Harden are two different conversations. Kobe has earned the presumptive benefit of the doubt, in any case. Kobe has been better than Wade this year. Harden has not.

Harden has had more impact on the Rockets this season than Wade has had on the Heat. And I don't mean value, relative to importance or any of that. Harden is not only scoring a lot more and averaging a point and a half per attempt, he's had more assists, and has done it at a higher volume. He's also the main guy on his team, bringing everyone into play. Wade has played better defense and rebounded a half rebound more. Harden is a much better offensive player this season. By a lot.